The Scotland County R-I Board of Education met in regular session on Thursday, November 10, 2011. President Gary Miller called the regular meeting to order with seven members present at 7:00 p.m.

The board reviewed bids on the flooring system of the building trades house from Memphis Lumber Company in the amount of $4,084.76 and from Hopkins Lumber Company in the amount of $5,550.11.

The board voted 7-0 to accept the low bid from Memphis Lumber Company.

The board also discussed options for tool storage for the building trades program.

"We are seeking a site for tool storage for the building trades' tools," stated Superintendent Dave Shalley. "The previous storage system was a school bus which was eventually deemed unsuitable. It was sold to the highest bidder last spring."

Shalley was instructed to explore different avenues and bring a suggestion to the board at a later date.

Building Repairs

In other business the board voted 7-0 to advertise for repair of the showers in both the girls' and boys' locker rooms.

"Over the years, the pipes have rusted and greatly reduced the flow of water to the shower heads," Shalley stated. "We will be seeking repair bids."

Financial Update

The superintendent's financial report to the board indicated revenues for the month were up, however state revenues are still lagging behind the previous year.

"We are operating at a $364,843.51 deficit for the year, which is not unusual, as local tax dollars will not be coming in until January," Shalley said. "The state legislature will need to address the funding formula this session, in order to avoid financial shortfalls which would be harmful to most schools.

He indicated some possibilities for helping rural schools avoid financial difficulties include freezing the formula phase in or slightly changing the formula.

Resolution

The board adopted a resolution thanking Paul Campbell for his 18 years of service to the Board of Education of Scotland County. Paul ended his tenure as a board member in April, 2011. The board had thanked him for his service prior to last night's meeting, but formed a resolution to recognize his contributions.

Exit Interview

Earlier in the school year the board discussed the value of an exit interview process for employees leaving the school system. The district received samples from other school systems and businesses for review and developed an Exit Interview Form for Scotland County. The board reviewed the form and made suggestions. No formal action was required.

Early Graduation

The board reviewed the requirements for early graduation from Scotland County High School. The introduction of technology and the ability to receive credit on line, through correspondence courses and ITV, has presented new possibilities for students seeking graduation, prior to eight semesters.

After reviewing the High School Graduation Handbook from DESE and local board policies developed in accordance with law, procedures are in place to handle the requests. No action required.

Personal Days

The board approved two personal day requests to extend the Thanksgiving holiday. 7-0

December Meeting

The December board meeting will be held December 12 at 7:00 p.m.

Resignation

The board voted 7-0 to accept, with regret, a letter from Brent Bondurant resigning from his duties as varsity football coach.

MSBA Resolution

The board voted 7-0 to adopt a resolution of support for the Missouri Public Education Vision Project report. The resolution is included.

Candidate Filing

The 2012 election calendar establishes the filing dates for the April 3, 2012, election. Candidates may begin filing during regular business hours (8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) on December 13th. Filing closes at 5:00 p.m. January 17th.